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Definition of spitefulness

spitefulness

/ˈspaɪt.fəl.nəs/
spite · ful · ness
Adverb:spitefully
•
Adjective:spiteful
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spitefulness Lexical Profile

spitefulness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being spiteful; petty malice, vindictiveness, or a deliberate desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone.

Example

"The mediator noted that lingering spitefulness between the two former business partners was delaying a fair settlement."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for spitefulness

• Nearby Words

spite
spiteful
spitefully
spitefulness
spitfire
spitter
spitting cobra

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective "spiteful" and the noun-forming suffix "-ness." The root word "spite" entered Middle English as a shortened form of "despite," deriving from Old French "despit" and ultimately from Latin "despectus" (meaning "a looking down upon" or "contempt").

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spitefulness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spitefulness
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